Your web browser and/or computer operating system is either out of date, or requires a configuration change, and will not be able to access the secure portions of the website.
You will not be able to log in or access pages that require secure connections, such as members-only areas, event registrations, payments, etc.

BIGUA - MANGUSTA

First presented at the 1996 Geneva Motor Show, the Mangustaâ€™s shape and concept were a joint effort between Alejandro DeTomaso and Marcello Gandini. Its most unique feature is its modular top design, which can be configured in any of three ways: closed coupe, open-topped targa, or full open convertible. The middle top section is removable, and the rear top / window portion can rotate down into the body. No cloth soft top is required!

The chassis employs a tubular frame, and the bodywork is rendered in a combination of fiberglass, Kevlar and other composite materials. Overall length is 165", with a wheelbase of 105"; the production Bigua is expected to weigh approximately 3100 pounds. Special 17" alloy wheels are specially cast for DeTomaso, and Brembo provides the 4-wheel power disk brakes.

For power, DeTomaso has again partnered with Ford, this time for their latest high-performance V-8. The all-alloy, double overhead cam, 4-valve-per-cylinder V-8 engine is rated at 305 horsepower, and includes complete electronic engine management and direct port fuel injection. One of Fordâ€™s newest designs, it is extremely powerful, docile and sturdy. Both a Borg-Warner 5-speed manual transmission and a computer-managed 4-speed automatic unit will be available.

The interior features a "retro" dual cockpit design, trimmed in handsome Italian leathers. Air conditioning, power windows, door locks and seats are all standard, as is a high performance CD sound system and complete instrumentation.

As of this writing, the Mangusta is being developed for series production as a 1998 model (see the related press release). It will be produced at the new factory in Modena, Italy, with the intent to certify it for world-wide sale by the middle of that year.